Cumberland Council, in partnership with Stagecoach and Reays, has launched the third phase of its Cumberland Go bus network expansion.
The new services began on Monday 5 January 2026 and aim to provide safer, more reliable, and sustainable transport options for local communities.
Among the new routes is the #600, offering a direct and more frequent connection between Carlisle, Cumberland Infirmary, Cockermouth, Whitehaven, and West Cumberland Hospital.
Whitehaven will see enhanced town services with routes 1 and 1A, along with improved connections to Cleator Moor on routes #22 and #22A.
Tourists and local residents will benefit from the #HW1 route, linking Carlisle to Hadrian’s Wall and connecting villages along the way.
A new #DR1 service will connect South Carlisle Health Centre, Locke Road, and Carleton Clinic with Carlisle city centre.
The #71 service provides a new link between Wigton and Anthorn via Kirkhampton to Carlisle, expanding options for commuters and visitors.
These additions follow services introduced in November and December 2025. New town routes included Maryport to Dearham #MD1, Cockermouth to Maryport #68, and the Cockermouth Town Service #C123.
Inter-town connections have also been improved, with Whitehaven to Ravenglass, Millom, and Barrow served by #X7 and #7, and Whitehaven to St Bees and Egremont on route #32.
Existing routes have been upgraded too, with Carlisle to Anthorn #93 now including a Sunday service, and Blackwell to Carlisle to Rockcliffe #64 enhanced for better reliability.
Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said: “January marks another milestone in Cumberland Council’s commitment to revitalising our region. These new routes reconnect vital services from hospitals to Hadrian’s Wall – helping residents access work, education, healthcare, and leisure with ease.”
She added: “The success of Cumberland Go depends on operator reliability and strong community uptake. We’re incredibly grateful to our transport teams, partner operators, and most importantly, the public, for engaging with us and making these services possible.”
